Clear, reliable voice and data communication between port management and their many teams plays a pivotal role in delivering operational efficiency and improved safety and security. This can be especially difficult when this has to be done across large areas with containers and mechanical handling equipment interfering with radio signals.

Icom radios are used at ports across the globe. The new series of Icom digital two way radios, called IDAS are very spectrum efficient allowing twice the amount of users on a radio system compared to other technologies. IDAS digital radios feature outstanding audio and superb noise cancelling properties providing clear crisp sound around all areas of a port. Also, because of the way that they digitally transmit, it is possible that parts of a site that previously had a blind spot could be covered.

Another benefit of Icom’s digital system is that it is capable of digital/analogue mixed mode operation. This means that they can receive both analogue and digital modes on a single channel. Mixed mode operation is a real benefit for port authorities as there is not the need to buy a complete radio system outright, an important consideration in the current economic climate. This can help in budgeting the transition from an older analogue system to a digital one.

There are a variety of IDAS digital systems available, from simple back to back digital radio systems featuring handportable radios to more sophisticated single site trunking system allowing contractors or security staff to communicate within their own groups and cross communicate with extended management team.

Icom also have a comprehensive range of commercial maritme and onboard solutions to back this up. Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom UK said, ‘The superior performance of Icom’s digital radios makes them ideal for use in Ports and Harbours. Long battery life combined with high-quality construction (including waterproofing in some instances) makes models from the Icom range perfect for daily demands of this sector. So if you are looking for a simple radio system with full reporting function to coordinate workers and services and to deliver your operations on time and budget, then Icom have a range of solutions available. With dealers nationwide, an informed sales team and a dedicated after-sales service, Icom UK is fully-equipped to satisfy your mobile radio communication requirements’.

Icom’s two way digital radio range together with other Icom commercial maritime products can be seen on stand B151 at the Seawork International Exhibition which takes place in the Canary Islands Fruit Terminal, Southampton between 25th and 27th of June 2013

To find an Icom dealer specialising in two way radio communication solutions for Ports and Harbours, contact Icom UK today on 01227 741741 or info@icomuk.co.uk.

Icom UK Marketing: marketing@icomuk.co.uk

McMurdo has announced that Smartfind M5 AIS Class A Transponder is now available. The Smartfind M5 Automatic Identification System (AIS) Class A Transponder, previewed at METS (Marine Equipment Trade Show) 2012 in Amsterdam, is part of McMurdo’s new range of AIS products that reflect its excellence in innovation and advancement in marine technology.

Ross Wilkinson, General Manager  of Orolia Ltd says: “Following the launch of the Smartfind M5 at METS, we are delighted with the positive feedback we have received. Smartfind M5 is the worlds first AIS Class A to incorporate an MOB alert feature, taking safety via  AIS to a whole new level. McMurdo is renowned for innovative marine safety products and this addition to the range forms part of our growth strategy.  Our capability to develop a flexible and user-friendly operating system, combined with our ability to offer a cost–effective unit, has made the Smartfind M5 the perfect solution for recreational and professional mariners alike.”

The Smartfind M5 AIS Class A Transponder gives mariners the ability to view at a glance the AIS status of vessels all around them and provides access to a host of detailed navigation information.  A compact single box solution, the Smartfind M5 features a 3.5” bright colour LCD display with powerful juggle control for quick entry of voyage related information as well as easy navigation of menus.   It also features an embedded coast line map, detailed AIS target list and radar type overview. This enables users to react effectively in different maritime situations thanks to its direct control function keys. Low cost, reduced size and easy installation make the M5 ideal to meet the budgets and demands of owners and vessel operators in difficult economic times.

Smartfind M5 provides complete AIS solution

The comprehensive interface capability of Smartfind M5 supports connection to a vessel’s existing navigation sensors; connection of Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), or Electronic Chart System (ECS) using NMEA, NMEA2000 or USB interfaces. Compact, extremely easy to operate and to install, the Smartfind M5 is suitable for all vessels that are required by legislation to fit AIS equipment.

Smartfind M5 meets the EU Fishing Mandate requirements for a Class A Shipborne AIS transponder system and is ideal for any vessels which have to comply with the AIS requirements of the Safety Of Life At Sea (SOLAS) convention. 

Smartfind M5 features ensure ease of use:

Smartfind M5 provides automated AIS communication from ‘ship-to-ship’ and ‘ship-to-shore’, transmitting and receiving vessel, voyage and safety related information. Own vessel voyage, position and course information is automatically transmitted and the AIS information provided by other ships in the vicinity, shore based stations and AIS equipped aids to navigation is clearly displayed.                                                 

The Smartfind M5’s powerful colour graphics capabilities can plot all surrounding AIS targets to give the officer of the watch a clear overview, and best visual understanding, of a developing hazard to the navigation situation.

Additional safety features:

The Smartfind M5 is the only AIS Class A to feature a fully comprehensive AIS MOB and AIS SART alarm. It provides on screen indication and internal buzzer when any AIS SART/MOB  TXID is received, an optional remote waterproof (MOB / alarm) sounder is also available. It also allows a “buddy list” of the vessels own AIS MOB IDs and associated crew name and has a steer to rescue MOB casualty target screen. The AIS MOB alarm feature is compatible with the McMurdo S10 AIS Beacon, Smartfind S20 SRS and other AIS SART devices. 

The Smartfind M5 AIS Class A Transponder is available worldwide through McMurdo’s network of internationally based distributors.  McMurdo also provides AIS installation and training courses through its service and support division.

Priced from £1,499.00 ex VAT/ Euro €1,799.00 ex TAX. Items included:

• Transponder unit with colour display
• Junction box and link cable
• GPS antenna
• Pilot plug – remote socket box
• Companion PC AIS Viewer Software

Darrell Bosley (Icom UK Commercial Product Specialist) and Ian Lockyer (Icom UK Marketing Manager) will be taking part in the London to Brighton bike ride to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.

The event takes place on Sunday, June 16 2013 and will be the first time the duo have taken part in this grand event and are looking forward to it. Darrell said, ‘It seemed like a good idea at the time. Can’t believe we are starting so early…even before the pubs open! However, on a serious note, we have all seen at first hand how friends and family suffer but hopefully events like this can help develop awareness, as well as funds for this debilitating disease.‘

You can support Darrell for this very worthwhile charity by visiting his charity page: http://www.justgiving.com/darrell-bosley

The British Heart Foundation is the nation’s heart charity. Every day they save lives through pioneering research, providing vital information to help people reduce their own heart health risks, campaigning for change and supporting and caring for heart patients.

Everyone at Icom UK wishes both Darrell and Ian the very best of luck – and we look forward to hearing of their success and seeing the photos.

Both Darrell and Ian send their special thanks to John Turner (Icom Amateur Product Specialist) for providing support on the day…they really do appreciate his assistance.

Icom UK Marketing: marketing@icomuk.co.uk

We have been able to avoid a chash with the apprentices and boat builders event so this should encourage more delegates. 

As speakers, we have the following list/subjects:

• John Adey, President of ABYC who I have invited over to talk about ABYC with a slant towards their electrical requirements
• Galileo the new GPS lookalike and given by Phil Davies of Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd
• Martin Hurll of St James Wealth Management with a return visit on financial matters/pensions
• Keith Longman from the Berthon Boat Company who a couple of years ago di a great presentation on apprentices and this will be an update, the company having won an award for their scheme.
• Ken Wittamore on UK and EU grants for industrial development

This will leave time for a discussion period and the necessary AGM which is always brief.

We hope to see as many of our members there as possible.

The inland waterways are becoming busier with increased commercial traffic and new pleasure craft. Many new boaters may not be fully familiar with the waterway or with traditional means of communication such as sound signals or flags. Both these factors have produced a situation where marine VHF radio on pleasure craft is becoming an essential piece of equipment leading to an improvement in safety. As a result, most commercial users and now consumers are being advised to use marine VHF radio as a primary safety tool to aid communication and navigation.

A marine VHF radio allows a boatowner to listen to broadcast messages, to call other ship or shore stations or groups of ship stations and to broadcast distress, urgency and safety messages. Gaining an operator’s certificate is straightforward and should present no problem to the average inland waterways leisure craft user.

Why do we need it?

• It is a matter of safety.
Marine VHF Radio provides a means to communicate with other vessels and shore stations (e.g. ports, locks, bridges and marinas) on operational, navigation and safety matters.

•It is commonly used.
Because radio is now common among commercial vessels on the larger freight waterways, there is a tendency to rely on it as a means of ascertaining the locations of other vessels. If they hear you on the radio, they will know where you are likely to be and can call you to warn of their approach, if necessary.

•It is commonly used (2).
Marine VHF Radio has become widely used on larger waterways, replacing flag signals and to some extent sound signals, without a VHF radio, you may be exposing yourself to unnecessary risks.

•It allows you to navigate the Inland Waterway Network.
It provides a means for you to call for locks to be prepared or moveable bridges to be swung or raised in advance of your arrival.

•It might be obligatory.
Marine VHF radio is obligatory on vessels navigating many tidal waterways, including parts of the Ouse, Humber, Trent, Witham and Thames.

•VHF radio sets are now relatively inexpensive.
The ship portable radio licence is free. Users will also need to attend a one day course, available in all parts of the country, to obtain the required operator’s certificate.

•Cruising in company.
You will be able to stay in touch with your companion vessel(s) for safety and planning purposes (but not idle chat, which is not allowed on the public channels).

•In an emergency.
As well as being able to call the nearest lock keeper, port control or coastguard (depending where you are), marine VHF also gives you the best chance of attracting help from a nearby vessel. Another vessel may be able to reach you before the emergency services do.

For these reasons, the Inland Waterways Association strongly recommends that all pleasure craft using larger waterways in active use by freight carrying vessels, or any tidal waterway, should carry a marine VHF radio and have someone on board who is qualified and able to use it correctly.

For a more detailed look at the rules and practicalities of using VHF please go to the Inland waterways website and download this document: GUIDELINES ON USE OF MARINE-BAND VHF RADIO BY INLAND PLEASURE CRAFT ON UK FREIGHT WATERWAYS

Icom UK Marketing: marketing@icomuk.co.uk

There are around 550 harbour pilots in the UK and ten’s thousands worldwide.  Every commercial ship over 300 GRT is mandated to carry a Class A transponder and the IMO has developed a standard plug ‘n’ play interface so that pilots can connect PilotLINK directly to any Class A AIS transponder regardless of manufacturer.

Pilots often want to be mobile on the bridge and even gather key navigation and AIS data when outside on the bridge wing – for instance when manoeuvring a ship.  Using a mobile device like an iPad with its familiar pinch ’n’ zoom features together with its high resolution display makes for a much better navigation experience.

PilotLINK is completely self-contained and fitted with an industry standard 1m interconnect cable.  It operates directly from an internal 9V PP3 battery which offers around 15 hours operation or alternatively can be connected to any USB compatible external power pack. These are available from a wide variety of third party manufacturers.  This USB connection can also be utilised with existing on board AC/DC outlets through a suitable adaptor allowing for just about every type of power source.

PilotLINK creates a unique Wi-Fi hotspot aboard the vessel with an on board range of typically 30m so it will easily footprint the bridge area.  AIS target data as well as GPS navigation information is transmitted from the Class A device and the program or app on the mobile device can tap into this data.  Digital Deep Sea offer a free app called iAIS and PilotLINK can also operate with industry leading apps such as iNavX and iSailor.

Class A transponders are also increasingly being fitted on larger leisure vessels and non-mandated installations such as work boats and tugs.  These users can also take advantage of PilotLINK.

PilotLINK is priced at £200 plus VAT and is available from late May 2013.  Further details from Digital Deep Sea, The Technology Centre, Failand Farm, Green Lane, Failand, Bristol BS8 3TR.  TEL + 44 1179 554475 or visit http://www.digitalyacht.co.uk

The Raymarine Weather Briefing will also be streamed live over the web using new high-speed digital connectivity installed on the Isle of Wight. Competitors and other interested parties will be able to view the Weather Briefing live via smartphone, tablet and PC by logging onto Raymarine, the official Race website, or by watching Wight TV’s Channel 220, and On Event TV shown in public areas across the Island including the big screen in Cowes Yacht Haven, and other favourite pre-race gathering points for competitors.

As any boater will know, the developments in weather patterns prior to a big race can have a huge impact on tactics when the big day arrives. The Raymarine Weather Briefing gives a detailed breakdown of the weather conditions, tide and sea state, as well as hints and tips on the best tactics for the race.

Now in its tenth year, the Raymarine Weather Briefing will be presented by top meteorologist and cruising and offshore racing navigator, Chris Tibbs. Chris has over 18 years of meteorologist experience and over 250,000 miles of practice at sea, with six world speed records under his belt. Met Office trained, Chris runs a forecasting and Consultancy Company for racing and cruising yachts and will be taking a break from this to present the latest weather and tidal information to competitors at the ISC, combining his meteorological expertise with his extensive knowledge of cruising and racing.

Commenting on the predicted weather forecast for the race, Chris Tibbs says, “We are going to experience unsettled weather until the end of May, however, it will get slightly better towards race day. It has been colder than average this month but temperatures will gradually improve during the week leading up to race and although the temperatures are better, they will still be close to, or a little below average temperature. Sea water temperatures are also below average in the Channel by about 1.5C at a chilly 9.5C. The temperature will increase slightly, but it will still stay below the average for early June.”

To evaluate the weather prior to the race, watch the course overview and tidal strategy video here: http://www.raymarine.co.uk/view/?id=7418.

To sign up to the Raymarine website to receive free email weather updates prior to the race, click here: http://www.raymarine.co.uk/RTIR2013/

Official J.P. Morgan Asset Management Round the Island Race website www.roundtheisland.org.uk

The new IC-M73PLUS from Icom builds on many of the features that made the IC-M71 the choice of many maritime professionals across the globe but also incorporates two new important features; a new voice recording function and Icom’s active Noise Cancelling Technology.

At first glance you can see that the IC-M73PLUS has a similar stylish design to the IC-M71. It retains the same durable and rugged body and advanced waterproof protection (1.5m depth for 30 minutes, equivalent to IPX8 rating). This is a radio you can use in the rain, snow or any other severe weather conditions!

A lot more has been packed into this new model. A “last call” voice recording function automatically saves the last incoming call for 1 minute, very important in clarifying important transmissions that may have been missed.

The IC-M73PLUS professional VHF Marine Transceiver also features Icom’s Active Noise Cancelling Technology reducing background noise by up to 90%, making sure you are heard when you really need to, such as when weather conditions are poor or if engines are running. IC-M73PLUS features “Bass Boost” signal processing technology that emphasizes low pitched sound to provide a rich bass sound for both transmit and receive signals. …another enhancement to improved audio quality.

The IC-M73PLUS features excellent audio performance. The internal speaker delivers a loud 600mW output with clear sound even in noisy environments. In addition, a water draining function ejects water from the speaker grille with low frequency sound.

The IC-M73PLUS comes as standard with a high capacity Lithium-Ion battery pack which provides up to 18 hours operating time.

These multi featured stylish VHF portables are ideal for any leisure boat owner. The advanced features will also appeal to a range of commercial operators, Marinas and Port Authorities. This durable VHF will stand up well for Search and Rescue organisations such as HM Coastguard, RNLI and National Coastwatch stations.

The IC-M73PLUS is now available from authorised Icom Marine Dealers with a retail price of £210.00 (ex.VAT).

Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager at Icom UK said, ‘As the true specialists in radio communications, Icom’s Research and Development Team has sought improved battery performance and greater clarity of audio. Icom has once again engineered a product that is extremely desirable on a number of fronts including style, functionality, usability and top performance.’

High resolution pictures of the IC-M73PLUS can be downloaded from our image bank. Click here to enter our Image Bank.

Icom UK Marketing: marketing@icomuk.co.uk

In its bulletin the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) says that the RIB involved in the tragic accident in Padstow over the May Bank Holiday was fitted with a kill cord but that it was not attached to the driver at the time.

The RYA echoes the MAIB’s safety bulletin message and reminds all owners and operators of such vessels fitted with a kill cord to:

• Test them regularly to ensure that the engine stops when the kill cord mechanism is operated
• Make sure that the cord is in good condition
• Always attach the cord to the driver, ideally before the engine is started, but certainly before the engine is put in gear
• When changing drivers it is strongly recommended that you should turn the engine off before transferring the kill cord from one driver to the other. The engine should only be restarted when the kill cord has been securely attached to the new driver.

Richard Falk, RYA Training Manager and Chief Examiner said: “The kill cord serves only one vital purpose, to stop the engine when the driver moves away from the controls for whatever reason.”

“No one wants a repeat of this tragic accident and so the RYA is urging everyone driving a powerboat, RIB or personal watercraft to make sure that they attach the kill cord around their leg before they switch on their engine.”

“RYA safety guidance and training advocates the wearing of a kill cord. In this type of boat it is just as important as wearing a lifejacket or buoyancy aid. Both are there to protect you”.

For more information on using a kill cord and how to attach it properly go to www.rya.org.uk/go/killcord.

You can read the MAIB Safety Bulletin 1/2013 on the MAIB website at www.maib.gov.uk/home.

The purpose of an MAIB Safety Bulletin is to communicate any safety lessons that have been identified from an incident prior to the full report on an investigation being published.

Ben Garlick of Queensland, Australia, has won a refund of the full purchase price of his award-winning Dragonfly system, as well as a Dragonfly sun cover and carrying case, by submitting the winning shot for April’s Screen Capture Competition.

His eye catching screen shot captured a bale of turtles swimming beneath his boat in a large, shallow estuary of water off the east coast of Australia.

Dragonfly’s CHIRP DownVisonsonar technology was able to capture a clear shot of the turtles shortly before they ventured to the surface of the water to greet Ben and his boat! Ben won the competition by completing an online form found on Raymarine’s website www.raymarine.eu/dragonfly.

Dragonfly’s innovative and award-winningtechnology provides two independent channels enabling the ultimate in fish targeting through its CHIRP sonar technology, with amazing photo-like underwater imagery using CHIRP DownVision. 

The Raymarine DragonflyScreen Capture Competition challenges boaters and anglers to discover the world beneath their boat, sharing their best ‘Dragonfly in action’ screen captures with the world.

Each month Raymarine will choose the best submissions and winners will receive a Dragonfly sun cover and carrying case for any screen capture images published by the company. Additionally, one lucky winner each month will receive a refund of the full purchase price of their Dragonfly system.

Official entry form and details are available at www.raymarine.eu/dragonfly.
To view the winner’s gallery click here http://www.raymarine.eu/view/?id=7655

Twenty eight events took place across the country that provided the opportunity for everyone to try something new, get on the water and support their local businesses. Hundreds of new and old enthusiastic boaters attended events across England, Scotland and Wales where they were able to gain expert advice, hints, tips and meet with some of the BMF team.

Mike Enser, Head of Marketing said: “The Federation and its members have worked closely together and as a result have developed On The Water Weekend. This new event has demonstrated nationally that everyone can go boating as it is affordable, fun and a great way to spend quality time with family and friends. We are delighted with the response we have had from our members and overwhelmed that so many events took place across the country. Feedback has been very positive from the public with leads being generated for future training courses, boat purchases and holidays.”

The On The Water Weekend was launched by the British Marine Federation (BMF) with the aims to get people of all ages and abilities from across the UK to try their hand at boating and watersports. The enthusiasm and support of the members made the diverse weekend events programme possible.

Dominic Smulders, Director Bray Marine Sales said: “We are very pleased with the weekend as we have possibly sold a new Broom and a number of brokerage boats. The members of the industry that attended the event reported good levels or enquiries and lots of people took up the free boat trips with 40 trips in total. People reported that they were surprised that getting ‘on the water’ wasn’t as expensive as they had thought it would be.”

Amanda Walker, Marketing Manager Herbert Woods said: “We had a great two days at Herbert Woods for the On The Water Weekend. Many of our visitors were people who were new to boating and we also took lots of bookings at the event and have more in the pipeline. We look forward to the event next year!”

Rob Howlett, Centre Manager Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre said: “We had a really good, excellent day that was hugely supported by a team of volunteers. In just the one day we saw hundreds of new faces get on the water and have also taken some bookings.”

Ronald Abbott, Owner Blackwater Boats said: “Thank you for the On The Water Weekend promotion. The day, combined with the naming ceremony for our new boat, went very well and was attended on Sunday by approximately 50 people. We are considering doing something similar next year with On The Water to also coincide with a celebration marking our 20 years in the boating business with Blackwater Boats.”

Hundreds of visitors attended events across the country, many having never got on the water before.

Jayne Simms: “We had heard a lot about the Broads recently so when we found out about the On The Water Weekend we thought to come along to look at the boats.”

Mike Jordan: “After we received the Boat Shows email we thought about looking at what events were on near us, we were pleasantly surprised.”

Sally Evans: “It’s great to see British companies helping to promote ways people can have a mini break right on their doorstep.”

Joe Rowlands: “We saw the East Coast Boat SHow in Anglia Afloat and came down to try out boating as a family. It’s very fun.”

Neil Patton: “This is my son’s first time out on a boat and I think I know what he will be asking Father Christmas for.”

On The Water is the initiative dedicated to promoting boating and watersports in the UK and to encourage on-water activities for all. To find out more information, region guides and events throughout the year visit – http://www.onthewater.co.uk/weekend

“It is important for us to work with companies that understand our needs, offer high quality products and knowledgeable technical support,” said Chris Sitzenstock, Shore and Build Team Project Manager for ORACLE TEAM USA.  “Mastervolt has collaborated with us throughout the design process, offering products that work well in our applications, and they stand by their products.” 

A wide variety of Mastervolt products including battery chargers, inverters and batteries are fitted on the two chase boats built by Naiad Inflatable Boats.  In addition, the Mastervolt lithium-ion battery is used during training on ORCALE TEAM USA’s AC72 vessel.

“Mastervolt has a deep commitment to the world of sailing. Our products are designed for performance and durability in that competitive environment,” said G.R. Schrotenboer, Commercial Leader of the Marine & Mobile group.  “We are proud to work with ORACLE TEAM USA, outfitting their boats as they defend the oldest trophy in international sport, the America’s Cup.”

For more information about Mastervolt, please visit www.Mastervolt.com and for more information on the America’s Cup and ORACLE TEAM USA, please visit www.oracleteamusa.com.

Other new products being introduced at Seawork include a new ‘black box’ marine transceiver, IC-M400BB, and the IC-M73EURO.

This handheld incorporates two new important features; a new voice recording function and Icom’s Active Noise Cancelling Technology.

Also on view will be the Icom Marine Commander Navigation System. The system integrates AIS data from a compatible transponder or receiver, radar information and displays data from a sounder/fish finder. It has the capacity to display real-time fuel consumption, engine speed, depth and temperature, and has provisions for four on-board cameras to be connected (via RCA connectors). Two 12.1 inch TFT displays can be connected to the Marine Commander’s main processor.

As well as being displayed on the Icom stand B151, this new Navigational system will be on show on the Channel Chieftain VI, a new 19m Crew Cat. Channel Chieftain VI is the first vessel in its class to feature a semi-elevated helm, with windows going around the whole cabin. As part of its build, Icom’s new Marine Commander Navigational System was installed to provide a networked solution for navigational and communication equipment for the vessel.

A range of other solutions will be on show including Icom’s IDAS range of digital two way radios , the onboard two way radio solution that satisfies the legal requirements of the onboard UHF specification ETS 300 720-1. Icom’s AIS product range and ATEX products suitable for use in hazardous areas such as oil rigs and on petrol tankers will also be on display.

Seawork International Exhibition takes place in the Canary Islands Fruit Terminal, Southampton between 25th and 27th of June 2013 and attracts over 7200 commercial visitors. A three day conference programme runs alongside the Seawork exhibition presented by Industry experts.

Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom UK Ltd said, ‘Clear, reliable voice and data communication in the commercial maritime sector plays a pivotal role in delivering operational efficiency and improved safety and security. That’s where Icom radios have always come in, providing a range of superior products with excellent features’.

To find out more about this international show, please visit the Seawork International website http://www.seawork.com.

To see Icom’s extensive range of radio communication and navigational products, please go to the http://www.icomuk.co.uk.

Icom UK Marketing: marketing@icomuk.co.uk

Following extensive beta testing with a number of key distributors, the EMU-1 has gone into production, enabling the immediate fulfilment of orders placed as the market eagerly anticipates the latest innovation from Actisense.   

The EMU-1 enables the sharing of engine data throughout the NMEA 2000 bus. It digitises analogue engine senders, enabling all NMEA 2000 display devices to monitor the engine on a vessel. The unit can handle 6 gauge / parameter inputs (these can be instead of the gauge or in parallel with the gauge), 4 alarm inputs, 2 Tach inputs and 2 additional auxiliary inputs, which are flexible to suit each installation.

Each EMU-1 can be configured to suit the engine it is working with, offering a flexible solution for many engine makes and models. Basic configuration will be available initially; however known configurations for various gauges and senders will be added to the configuration software in coming months.  

Phil Whitehurst, Managing Director of Active Research Limited said, “The EMU-1 has been designed so engine information can be easily shared on the NMEA 2000 bus, removing the need and expense associated with changing an existing engine. This will change the way analogue to NMEA data conversions are done. We are gathering feedback from customers to understand what they want the EMU-1 to support so we can prioritise adding additional features.”

For more information about Actisense, visit www.actisense.com and follow them on Twitter and Facebook.

MARINE ELECTRONICS INSTALLER COURSE

• 31 October 2013 in Warwick

This is a one day introductory course in marine electronics installation which clarifies and defines competent installation practices.

The course covers:

Ohm’s Law, Kirchoff’s Law, Vessel Grounding Systems, EMI, DSC, VHF Transceivers, Coax Cables, Antennas, Data Communications, Equipment Installation, Testing, Electrical Distribution, Capacity, Wire Sizing, Battery Basics, Capacity, Charging

An MEI certificate is an indication of a working knowledge of NMEA’s Installation Standard, which clarifies and defines competent installation practices.  A Marine Electronics Installer has demonstrated this proficiency by passing an examination designed to measure understanding of those principles.

COST: BMF Members: £309.60 (£258 + VAT)  Non-Members: £421.20 (£351 + VAT)

The price includes the NMEA Installation Standard and MEI licensing fee

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BMET ELECTRICAL COURSE

• 29 and 30 October 2013 in Warwick

The two day BMET Course is designed to give candidates a general overview of the knowledge and skills required for a BMEA-certified Marine Electrical Technician. The course is split into 8 sections covering:

Health & Safety, AC & DC Circuits, Circuit Diagrams & Standard Conventions, Test & Measurement Equipment, Generators & Motors, Distribution Systems, Batteries & Charging Systems, Cables & Terminations

All information and required knowledge deals mainly with UK systems and follows not only the BMEA Code of Practice and ISOs, but also the Recreational Craft Directive (RCD).

COST: BMF Members: £321.60 (£268 + VAT)  Non-Members: £519.60 (£433 + VAT)

The prices include the BMET Exam and Certification

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ADVANCED MARINE ELECTRONICS INSTALLER COURSE

• 30 May 2013 in Poole

If you have already attended the standard Marine Electronics Installer course and would like to take your training and certification to the next level, this course is for you.

The course covers:

Computers & Ethernet Networking, VHF & SSB Installations, Antenna Arrangement & Satellite Communications, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS),  EMI Causes & Mitigation, 50-Question Multi-choice Exam

Benefits

The key electronics manufacturers are supportive of this training and qualificationThis is not just an exam, but training as well.BMEA have been key players in making sure that this training is internationally relevant.You can market your NMEA training to customers – old and new – as an indication of your professional expertise.

COST: BMF Members: £204 (£170 + VAT)   Non-Members: £312 (£260 + VAT)

The price includes the AMEI exam and certification

Please note: This course is only available to people who have already attended the standard Marine Electronics Course.

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For further information or to book on any of these courses, please contact Liv Whetmore on (01784) 223631 or e-mail: lwhetmore@britishmarine.co.uk

All BMF training courses, advice and information can be found here.

“We’ve listened to customer feedback and built off the success of our previous marine instruments to make the GMI 20 and GHC 20 better,” said Dan Bartel, vice president of sales. “With bigger, brighter, more vibrant screens, the GMI 20 and GHC 20 are easier to see, easier to use and provide more crucial information than ever before.”

The GMI 20 has a bonded 4-inch color screen that displays depth, speed, wind, engine information and over 100 marine and vessel-specific parameters based on the mariner’s preference. The GMI 20 is designed to fulfill the purpose of its predecessor, the GMI 10, while further expanding functionality by providing more information in a larger and brighter format.

The GHC 20 also has a bonded 4-inch color screen that is designed to display and provide control of autopilot functions. With a larger and brighter display, the GHC 20 is compatible with legacy Garmin autopilots while also being compatible with newer Garmin autopilot systems. The GHC 20 can also be operated wirelessly with an autopilot remote and Garmin’s newly announced quatix marine watch. New autopilot corepacks, such as the GHP 10, GHP 12 and GHP 20, will have the GHC 20 included.

With an updated user interface, both the GMI and GHC 20 provide menus and gauges that match the aesthetics of Garmin’s newly announced GPSMAP 8000 Glass Helm Series. While more user friendly and boasting a more intuitive layout that shares both backlight and color settings, the GMI and GHC 20 have the ability to be flush or flat-mounted, preserving the glass helm appearance that the GPSMAP 8000 Glass Helm Series provides.

Night time readability has been increased on the GMI and GHC 20. With a choice of red/black, green/black or the normal night mode color scheme, the GMI and GHC 20 have LED backlighting that gives the ability to display information much dimmer than the previous GMI and GHC models could. Conversely, daylight readability has also been enhanced. With a higher contrast color scheme and wider viewing angle, the GMI and GHC 20 provide for better clarity and visibility in any sunlight. In addition, the glass-bonded display of the GMI and GHC 20 ensures that no condensation forms within the unit. The glass display is also treated to help prevent any glare or reflection, preserving the clearest view of data possible in any weather conditions.

A new feature introduced on the GMI 20 is auto-scroll. With auto-scroll, the mariner can designate how quickly the pages cycle without user intervention. The layout can be customized to scroll at different time intervals, thus allowing the freedom to install the unit in a greater variety of places and easily access the information from longer distances. This also allows the user the ability to utilize one instrument for multiple uses.

The GMI 20 and GHC 20 are scheduled to be available in the second quarter of 2013. For additional information regarding the GMI 20 and GHC 20, visit garmin.co.uk/onthewater

Garmin’s marine business segment is a leading provider of navigation and communication equipment to retail and OEM customers. Garmin’s portfolio includes the industry’s most sophisticated array of chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar, high-definition radar, autopilot offerings and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and ease-of-use.

Icom UK, together with the team from YBW.com, one of the UK’s leading marine community web portals, have updated Icom UK’s microsite to include the latest developments in marine radio including ‘Handheld DSC’ and ‘AIS’.

Icom UK’s microsite contains everything you need to know about marine radio. The site includes an overview of VHF and HF radio including which marine radios to choose, licensing and sections on ‘ATIS’ (Automatic Transmitter Identification System), ‘AIS’ (Automatic Identification System) and ‘DSC’ (Digital Selective Calling).

The site also contains an extensive FAQ section and a regular competition offering visitors the opportunity to win an Icom radio. The current competition offers the chance to win an Icom MXA-5000 Class B AIS Receiver.

Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom UK Ltd said, ‘we have included new sections on ‘AIS’ and ‘Handheld DSC’ as these are of growing interest to boat owners’.

Go and check out the new site at: http://www.ybw.com/ybw/vhf

Icom UK Marketing: marketing@icomuk.co.uk

Mastervolt has always been at the cutting edge of technological advances since its founding in 1991. Now as part of the American-based Actuant Corporation, the company has been reinforced in its drive to create the most dependable, lightweight and versatile electrical products and systems available today. For the Volvo Ocean Race, that’s exactly what is needed.

Each of the identical Volvo Ocean 65 yachts is being completed by UK-based Green Marine, and will carry two of the latest Lithium Ion Ultra 24/5000 batteries. These second generation models are capable of withstanding punishing recharge cycles that would destroy most conventional lead-acid equivalents. Weighing just 55kg apiece, an 80% weight saving over lead-acid for 5kWh, the remarkable 24V batteries pack a lot of power into a relatively small footprint, and will supply all the energy needs for each yacht. Each can be repeatedly discharged by up to 80% of its total capacity without damage.

More critically, they are also capable of soaking up a full charge in around an hour, which is just as well, as each yacht’s Volvo engine carries two Mastervolt 150ah Alpha Pro alternators and regulators, especially designed for fast charging with intelligent control. This means that each yacht will only have to run its engine for 60 minutes a day to fully recharge the batteries, yet the system can also be recharged from solar and other green sources. 

Mastervolt designs its products around total system compatibility, and as a direct result of being part of Actuant’s Electrical division, the MasterBus communication systems will be able to exchange data with other OEM systems on board each yacht that use NMEA2000 protocols as the backbone. This means that data from Mastervolt’s power management network can be displayed on a number of marine instrument screens.

Putting the Mastervolt systems into these high-tech boats is Diverse Yacht Services, a highly accomplished Southampton-based company that specializes in tying advanced technologies together into one rugged platform. Director Will Best, who completed the gruelling Sydney to Hobart Race on the winning yacht in 2011, is delighted with Volvo’s choice.

“This equipment has already proven itself in the previous Volvo Ocean Races,” he said. “It performed well as a lightweight, high-performance product, and Mastervolt’s global network means competitors will always have access to support should it be needed. We’ll be staying with Mastervolt not just for this Race, but also for 2017-18 as well.”

Commenting on behalf of the Volvo Ocean Race organisers, Head of Yacht Maintenance Centre, Nick Bice said, “Mastervolt products are rugged and reliable, so are a perfect fit with the ethos of the Volvo brand.”

Speaking for Mastervolt UK, the suppliers of the equipment, UK Marine Sales Manager, Nick Holland said, “This is a hugely prestigious event where the crews drive each yacht to its limit. As a keen yachtsman myself, I am really excited to be involved at such a critical level, and to know that our equipment will be trusted in the most extreme yacht race on Earth.”

The event will start from Alicante, Spain with the first in-port race on October 4^th, 2014.  The boats set sail for Recife exactly a week later.  Progress and updates can be found at www.volvooceanrace.com

“We are very excited to be the first autopilot manufacturer that brings autopilot support for the Yamaha Helm Master boat control system to the market” said Dan Bartel, vice president of worldwide sales. “With the Yamaha Helm Master, the helmsman has full control, which can lead to increased situational awareness, confidence and safety.”

Yamaha Helm Master is a fully integrated boat control system, including joystick, engineered for powerboats within twin or triple Yamaha outboard engines. The system uses state-of-the-art electronics and, with integrated joystick functionality, provides easy, 360-degree maneuvering capabilities. With the system, the helmsman can confidently move the boat forward, backward, sideways or diagonally, as well as rotating on its own axis, to accomplish docking maneuvers in tricky or crowded marinas.

The Garmin GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system provides superior control algorithms for unmatched autopilot performance. The GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system will interface to a Yamaha Helm Master boat via an included gateway and take control for heading hold, basic patterns or GPS routes while the Helm Master system is in normal steering mode. Taking advantage of the dynamic gain adjustments based on tachometer information provided by the Yamaha system, the GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system offers optimal performance at all speeds.

With the GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system, Yamaha customers will enjoy features found throughout Garmin’s existing line of autopilots, including Shadow Drive technology – a capability that automatically disengages the autopilot if the helm is turned, allowing for quick and safe manual maneuvers without manually disengaging the autopilot. The autopilot will automatically re-engage once a steady course is re-established. Additionally, this new steer-by-wire autopilot works as a system-wide heading sensor, which enables MARPA and chart overlay when connected to a Garmin chartplotter and radar. For easy installation and integration with other Garmin products, the GHP 20 steer-by-wire autopilot has full NMEA 2000 connectivity.

The GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system will utilize the Garmin GHC™ 10 autopilot control unit, which was designed to help boaters configure and control the autopilot. With an easy-to-read 3.5” color display, three soft keys, and a dedicated “standby” button, boat owners with Yamaha Helm Master steering will benefit from the simple, interactive interface, and will be able to control the heading of the boat with the press of a button.

The GHP 20 Yamaha marine autopilot system is scheduled to be available in the second quarter of 2013. For more information on the GHP 20 for Yamaha, visit www.garmin.co.uk/onthewater

Raymarine is supporting the event which takes place from 6-9 June at Parkstone Yacht Club with the prize of a Raymarine Wireless Microcompass. The prize will be awarded to the first boat overall sailing without a compass.

The Raymarine Microcompass was presented to UKWA Secretary Sarah Burgess and Geoff Gibbons at the RYA Dinghy Show.